DETROIT LIONS: Jahvid Best shut down for rest of season

It's a question that has no answer at this point, but it's beginning to look like we might have seen the last of the Detroit Lions running back.

The Lions announced late Friday afternoon that Best has been shut down for the rest of the season. Technically he will remain on the reserve/physically unable to perform list. A decision had to be made by Monday whether he would return or sit for the remainder of the season.

The explosive Lions running back suffered a concussion on Oct. 16, 2011, and has not been cleared for contact since.

Lions general manager Martin Mayhew said there has been subsequent evaluation and consultation since the last update on Oct. 15.

"As has been the case throughout, we have deferred to the medical experts and support their current recommendation that Jahvid not return to the field this season,'' Mayhew said in a statement.

Best has been examined by an independent group of specialists. The decisions have not been made by team doctors.

"Javhid's approach to this situation and his adherence to the process and protocol have been exemplary," Mayhew said. "No one has worked harder or shown more dedication than Jahvid has over the past year.''

Best was able to participate in the organized team activities in May and June because they did not involve contact.

Coach Jim Schwartz has repeatedly said that Best is in great physical condition, better than when he was a rookie.

"As disappointing as this decision is for us and Jahvid, we do believe it is in his long-term best interest,'' Mayhew said

The Lions moved up in the 2010 draft to select Best late in the first round. Best suffered a nasty concussion in his senior year at Cal which was a concern for some NFL teams. The Lions did their homework and took the risk.

Best played in 15 games in 2010 and six games in 2011 until he suffered his concussion.

Weeks ago, prior to receiving test results, Best was hopeful that he would be cleared to return.

He reiterated that he has not had any concussion symptoms since before training camp.